to neutralize
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to neutralize
To cancel out or weaken the effect of something by creating an opposite effect. This is often used in chemical, physical, or figurative contexts.
Man kann eine Säure mit einer Lauge neutralisieren.
You can neutralize an acid with an alkali.
The verb ends in '-isieren' (-ize). This ending is often used to form verbs from adjectives here: 'neutral' (neutral). It means putting something into the state described by the adjective, so making something 'neutral'.
Die neue Politik soll die wirtschaftlichen Unterschiede neutralisieren.
The new policy is intended to neutralize the economic differences.
'Neutralisieren' (to neutralize) always requires an accusative object. So the structure is: someone or something neutralizes something (accusative).
Ein spezieller Filter kann den schlechten Geruch neutralisieren.
A special filter can neutralize the bad smell.
In the chemical or figurative sense, the verb is often combined with things that have a strong effect. Typical phrases are: 'einen Geruch neutralisieren' (to neutralize a smell), 'eine Wirkung neutralisieren' (to neutralize an effect), or 'einen Geschmack neutralisieren' (to neutralize a taste).
Mit etwas Zucker kann man den sauren Geschmack der Soße neutralisieren.
With a little sugar, you can neutralize the sour taste of the sauce.
In the meaning 'unschädlich machen' (to render harmless), the word belongs to the technical language of the military and police. In everyday language, it is not used for people and can sound very detached or even aggressive.
Die Spezialeinheit hatte den Auftrag, die Gefahr zu neutralisieren.
The special unit had the task of neutralizing the threat.
to strengthen / reinforce / amplify
'verstärken' and 'neutralisieren' are opposites when it comes to the effect of something. 'verstärken' makes an effect stronger or more intense. 'neutralisieren' cancels out an effect or makes it much weaker, often through an opposite effect. The word 'neutralisieren' sounds somewhat more technical and fits well in chemistry, technology, or also in figurative situations. In practical terms: 'verstärken' adds more effect, while 'neutralisieren' takes the effect away.
Das Mittel neutralisiert den unangenehmen Geruch im Kühlschrank.
The product neutralizes the unpleasant smell in the refrigerator.
Scharfe Gewürze verstärken den Geschmack der Suppe.
Spicy seasonings strengthen the flavor of the soup.